The easiest way to download songs from YouTube for free is to use a free online video downloader. These websites and browser extensions allow you to paste in a YouTube URL and download the video’s audio track as an MP3 file. This lets you get songs from YouTube without paying for a premium account or downloading software.
Using Online Video Downloaders
Online video downloaders are the simplest option for downloading YouTube songs for free. Here are some of the top sites:
- YouTubeByClick – This site has a clean interface that lets you paste in a YouTube link, choose MP3 format, and download the audio. No account needed.
- ClipConverter – Another straightforward site that converts YouTube videos to MP3s. Just paste the link and click “Start.”
- OnlineVideoConverter – Supports many formats including MP3. Enter the URL, choose MP3, and convert.
- Converto – Minimalist design and easy to use. Paste the link, select MP3, and download.
These sites work on desktop and mobile, though you may need to disable ad blockers for the download to work. The process is essentially the same on any online video downloader:
- Go to the site and paste your YouTube video’s URL into the box.
- Select MP3 as the download format.
- Click the “Download” or “Convert” button to start.
- When finished, click the download link.
The audio track will download as an MP3 file that you can add to your music library. Most sites don’t have file size limits and will work for songs of any length.
Using Browser Extensions
If you want a more seamless way to download YouTube music, browser extensions can integrate into YouTube for quick downloading. Here are some top options:
- Video DownloadHelper – Works on Chrome, Firefox, and Edge. Lets you download videos off YouTube with one click.
- FastestTube – Chrome extension with an MP3 button for audio-only downloads.
- Easy Youtube Video Downloader Express – Adds a download button to YouTube for downloading as MP3 or other formats.
To use these, you’ll first need to install the extension for your browser. Then when you visit YouTube, you’ll see a download button below each video. Click it, select MP3 format, and your download will begin instantly.
Browser extensions provide quicker access compared to online downloaders. However, they have file size limits and may not work for very long videos. They’re best for shorter music videos and songs.
Using Desktop Apps
If you want to save YouTube songs regularly, a desktop app can make downloading easy. These programs integrate with your computer and web browser for quick downloading. Some top options include:
- 4K Video Downloader – Works on Windows and Mac. Lets you paste YouTube links or download entire playlists.
- Free YouTube Download – Windows and Mac software with YouTube browser integration. Supports playlists.
- WinX YouTube Downloader – Downloads YouTube playlists and channels in MP3 format. Windows only.
Desktop downloader apps offer features like:
- Browser integration – Right-click a YouTube video to download
- Playlist downloading – Get entire YouTube playlists as MP3s
- Channel subscription – Automatically download new uploads from channels
- Metadata tagging – Automatically add ID3 tags to your MP3s
The apps sometimes have premium versions, but the free versions will be enough for downloading audio tracks from YouTube.
Downloading from Mobile Devices
You have a few options for downloading YouTube songs on your phone or tablet without Premium:
- Use online downloaders – The sites listed above also work great on mobile. Copy the YouTube link from the app to paste into the site.
- Get a downloader app – Apps like VideoDownloader, TubeMate, and Snaptube make downloading simple.
- Use the mobile site – Go to YouTube’s mobile site, play the video, and apps can download the audio.
The downloader apps are very straightforward. Simply search for the one you want in your device’s app store, install it, grant permissions, and you’ll be able to download MP3s with the tap of a button. TubeMate and Snaptube allow multiple downloads simultaneously.
When using the mobile site method, you’ll need to start playing the video in the mobile browser first. Then you can use built-in apps or downloaders to grab the audio file as it streams.
Finding YouTube Music to Download
Searching YouTube can find you millions of songs to download, but here are some tips for locating music:
- Check the music charts for the latest hits.
- Search for the song name + “official video” or “official audio.”
- Find your favorite artists’ official channels.
- Look up music from movies, TV shows, games, etc.
- Search for lyrics videos, which are commonly uploaded.
Subscribing to record labels like Spinnin’ Records and Trap Nation will provide you new music daily. Or find popular remix and cover channels like The Kiffness and Alex Terranova.
YouTube also has many giant libraries of full albums, discographies, and greatest hits you can use a downloader for. Remember to stick to material that’s legal to download.
Why You Should Download Songs from YouTube
Here are some of the top reasons to grab music from YouTube using these methods:
- It’s free – Avoid paying for streaming subscriptions or albums.
- Downloads are unlimited – No caps on how many songs you can get.
- Higher audio quality – YouTube audio can go up to 256kbps, better than streaming.
- Works offline – Play the MP3s anywhere without an internet connection.
- Avoids ads – Downloaded songs don’t have interruptions.
The ability to get unlimited free music makes downloading from YouTube attractive. Just remember to use the downloads for personal use only.
Is It Legal to Download YouTube Songs?
In most cases, downloading songs from YouTube is considered copyright infringement. YouTube’s terms prohibit downloading content without permission from the copyright holder. However, authorities rarely go after individual users who download a reasonable amount of songs for personal entertainment. Streaming music from YouTube is generally safer than downloading, but downloading in moderation is unlikely to get you in trouble.
To stay on the legal side, stick to these guidelines:
- Avoid sharing downloads online or distributing them.
- Don’t sell or commercially benefit from the downloads.
- Download reasonable amounts for your own library.
- Delete songs you don’t end up listening to.
- Support artists you like through other means when possible.
While sites that enable downloading occupy a legal grey area, the responsibility lies with the end user. Be smart about what and how much you download.
